1. United States
2. Okla.
3. Letter

The claim that public school programs like Title I funding, the National School Lunch Program, and English Language Proficiency constitute "federal public benefits" subject to restrictions under President Trump's Executive Order is inaccurate and unfounded. Federal laws and guidance clearly exclude K-12 education programs from the definition of "public benefits" that are restricted for those without lawful immigration status. Schools do not inquire about students' immigration status, nor should they, given the Supreme Court's ruling guaranteeing all children access to public education regardless of status. Superintendent Walters' request for an opinion wrongly asserts these programs could be affected, creating unnecessary fear and distraction from the real issues facing Oklahoma schools. His attempt to import anti-immigrant rhetoric into our public education system is a disturbing overreach that threatens to undermine equity and access for all students. Policymakers should reject these unfounded claims and misguided efforts. Instead, our leaders must focus on investing in and strengthening Oklahoma's public schools to ensure all children have access to a quality education, regardless of their background or immigration status. Educational opportunity should never be restricted based on where a child was born.